The Chief Medical Officer has again asked the public to plan ahead of their visits to loved-ones over Christmas.
Dr Tony Holohan urged members of society to their own "risk assessment" before deciding to come into contact with others.
Speaking to members of the media after 15 deaths and 310 new cases of the virus were confirmed on Thursday, he said: “Tomorrow marks 14 days to Christmas Day.
"To ensure the safest possible interaction with your family over Christmas, consider restricting your movements now.
“Risk assess the environments you plan to be in over the next two weeks; are they compliant with public health measures? Can you keep a two metre distance? Are people wearing face coverings?
"Now is the time to make decisions about what interactions are necessary and pose the lowest risk to you, your family and friends over Christmas.”
Meanwhile, NPHET member Professor Philip Nolan praised the public for adhering to new rules since restrictions were eased last week.
He said that the reproduction number has remained steady, despite retail, barbers, hairdressers, gyms, pubs and restaurants all reopening last week.
There was a major jump in 'mobility' across the country, he said, but the fact that both cases and the 'R' number have remained stable shows that society is clearly following rules.
